LAS VEGAS – Cheerleaders high-stepped their way through the stoppages in play while the disc jockey spun pulse-pounding tunes, whether they be current hits or old standards. Attempts to get people up from their seats and onto their feet for the Village People’s “YMCA” fell flat and it’s a wonder that anyone tries to keep that late-1970s kitschy disco hit alive. During a hockey game, too.

But the thought was reflective of the attitude the Vegas Golden Knights would take toward its role of a first-time host for one of the rookie tournaments across the NHL over the weekend. This was not going to be just a quiet gathering of family and friends inside City National Arena where the loudest noises were hits made and pucks shot. It is Las Vegas. Got to work in a little entertainment somewhere.

Was it necessary? If one likes that sort of thing, then sure. The biggest takeaway from the Vegas Rookie Faceoff may be more about the people – from fans that can’t get...